Public urged to have say on plans to drag Oxford Street into 21st Century

A consultation draws to an end this week as plans are put together to improve road safety and pollution levels

by Goolistan Cooper

19:45, 13 Jun 2017Updated19:46, 13 Jun 2017

Members of the public have less than a week left to have their say on the proposed transformation of Oxford Street.

Westminster City Council is working with the Mayor of London and Transport for London (TfL) to carry out changes to the road and surrounding area with the aim that it remains one of the world’s best outdoor shopping experience.

There is still time to attend two road shows as part of the eight-week consultation, which ends at midnight on June 18.

There is also a strong educational and cultural tradition, from the University of Westminster to the world famous London Palladium and prestigious Wigmore Hall.

The proposals to transform Oxford Street aim to significantly improve the area, as well as creating jobs, opportunities and prosperity, bolstering the area’s reputation as a leading shopping destination and ensuring the district retains the unique character of its neighbourhoods.

A party in Oxford Street in 1981(Image: Daily Mirror)

Aims of Westminster City Council and TfL to create a new world-class public space by

Improving the public spaces and overall experience so that people will want to visit and keep coming back.

Improving neighbourhoods so they are some of the best places to live and visit in London.

Reducing the volume of traffic in Oxford Street.

Addressing its poor air quality.

Reducing crowding in Oxford Street and improving road safety.

Managing the traffic in the surrounding area and improving neighbourhoods for residents.

It is one of the prime shopping destinations in the country(Image: Getty Images Europe)

Deputy leader and cabinet member for business, culture and heritage, Cllr Robert Davis, said: “We want to create a better environment for Oxford Street, address poor air quality, support a cultural heartland and thriving business district and deliver improved neighbourhoods.

“But before we make any decisions on whether to progress with a second consultation, we want to know the thoughts of everyone who has a view on the future of Oxford Street.

“That is everyone who visits, works or lives in the area so please get involved in this very important consultation.

Plans are under way to bring Oxford Street into the 21st Century(Image: PA)

“These plans are about ensuring our proud legacy lives on and not just for everyone who loves our Capital and loves Oxford Street – but for future generations to come.”

Val Shawcross, deputy mayor for transport, said Oxford Street needed to be brought into the 21st Century.

"This consultation is about making it one of the world’s finest public spaces too," she said.

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“Today there is simply far too much pollution, but with the forthcoming arrival of the Elizabeth line we have a real opportunity to make the street cleaner and safer for the millions who use it every year.

“We are committed to making this transformation the very best it can be, for the benefit of local residents, businesses and all those who rely on transport in the area.”

Two of the four road shows have already taken place.

The remaining two are at the Regent Hall Salvation Army Church and Community Centre’s main hall, at 275 Oxford Street, from midday to 7pm on Wednesday (June 14) and the Bechstein Room in Wigmore Hall, Wigmore Street on Friday (June 16) from 10am to 4pm.

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